Dogs are sometimes effected by osteoarthritis / canine arthitis which is caused by the degradation of the cartilage within a joint. Cartilage is a buffer between bones in a joint. The breakdown of cartilage can reduce the function of the joint and create pain or stiffness. Mild arthritis is uncomfortable. Severe arthritis, which can progress to bone on bone contact, is very painful. Symptoms of osteoarthritis in your dog include: stiffness in the joints, favoring a limb, difficulty in sitting or standing, hesitancy to jump, decreased activity level, and lethargy. There are a variety of treatments for canine arthritis, but unfortunately no cure. The main element of treating arthritis is pain management. In the most severe cases surgery may be required. However, less extreme treatments are recommended for most dogs. Pain relieving lotions are a safe way to treat the aches and stiffness of arthritis. Your vet may also prescribe medication to reduce swelling and discomfort. A newer treatment is dietary. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have been found helpful in relieving inflammation and reducing the degenerative process in some dogs. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates attract fluid to the joint's cartilage system. This helps the body repair damaged joints while keeping the cartilage destroying enzymes under control. It is also thought this may work as a preventative measure for dogs with a high risk of contracting arthritis.

The benefits of pain reduction are two fold. First, reducing pain provides a better quality of life for your dog. Second, increasing your dog's mobility will help prevent the arthritis from becoming more severe. If you think your dog has arthritis, make an appointment with your vet for a proper diagnosis and discussion of treatment options. With proper treatment you may greatly improve your dog's quality of life.